Watchlist
Kia mataara
Kia mataara
The TAIC Watchlist 2026 identifies the systemic safety issues of greatest and most immediate concern to the Commission in New Zealand’s aviation, maritime and rail sectors. it draws the attention of policy makers, regulators, operators and others to systemic safety risks that could have significant social, economic or environmental consequences. Those responsible need to work together, put effective safety controls in place and make sure they work.
Each Watchlist reflects current evidence. TAIC creates a new Watchlist every two years, drawing on its inquiries, recognising progress and identifying the need for further action. The current Watchlist was published on 19 October 2026.
When a train passes a stop signal without proper authorisation (a ‘Signal Passed at Danger’ or SPAD), it risks derailment and/or collision with other rail vehicles and track workers, which can have severe consequences. Currently, there is no regulatory requirement for physical fail-safe defences to automatically stop a train that passes a signal at danger.
Strategies to promote safety in New Zealand’s recreational boating sector focus on encouraging self-reliance and skipper responsibility through safety awareness and education.
The Transport Accident Investigation Commission has inquired into accidents where people working in the rail corridor have died, been seriously injured, or have had their lives put at risk.
Previous Transport Accident Investigation Commission inquiries highlighted safety improvements for road vehicles at level crossings.
Across the aviation, rail, and maritime transport modes, tracking and locating technologies offer ways to improve people’s chances of avoiding or surviving an accident or incident and ensuring they can be found.
Peer organisations of TAIC have their own version of the Safety Watch List containing articles that seek to enhance transport safety within their own territorial boundaries.